There have been several television series over the years that have explored the topic of multiple personalities, also known as Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). These shows vary in genre, tone, and approach, but all offer unique insights into the complexities of living with this condition.
Below are my 10 must watch TV series about DID.
The Secret Life of the American Teenager
“The Secret Life of the American Teenager” which premiered in 2008 and concluded in 2013. This drama follows a teenage girl named Adrian who develops DID after being sexually assaulted. The series explores the ways in which her condition affects her relationships and her ability to cope with trauma.
Watch the trailer Here
The Sinner
“The Sinner,” which premiered in 2017. This crime thriller features a detective named Harry Ambrose (played by Bill Pullman), who investigates a series of murders that seem to be linked to a woman named Cora (played by Jessica Biel). As the series progresses, it becomes clear that Cora has multiple personalities, and the show explores the traumatic events that led to her condition. While “The Sinner” is a dark and suspenseful series, it also tackles the topic of multiple personalities with sensitivity and depth.
Watch Trailer Here
Many Sides of Jane
“Many Sides of Jane” is a documentary series on A&E that follows the life of Jane Hart, a woman with dissociative identity disorder who has over 20 distinct personalities. The show was premiered in 2018 and offers a sensitive and nuanced portrayal of the condition, highlighting the challenges faced by those with DID and the importance of therapy and support. Many Sides of Jane is a must-watch for anyone interested in learning more about this complex disorder.
Watch Trailer Here
United States of Tara
“United States of Tara,” which originally aired from 2009 to 2011. The show follows the life of Tara (played by Toni Collette), a suburban housewife and mother who has multiple personalities, each with their own distinct traits and quirks. The series takes a sensitive and nuanced approach to portraying Tara’s condition, delving into the impact it has on her family and relationships. The show also explores the various triggers that can lead to a switch in personalities, and the difficulty of managing such a complex condition.
Watch Trailer Here
Mr. Robot
“Mr. Robot” is a critically acclaimed series that premiered in 2015 and concluded in 2019. The show follows Elliot Alderson (played by Rami Malek), a cybersecurity engineer who suffers from social anxiety disorder and depression. Throughout the series, it is revealed that Elliot has multiple personalities, and the show explores the various personas that he adopts to cope with his trauma. While “Mr. Robot” is primarily a thriller and explores themes of cybercrime and corporate greed, it also delves into the complexities of living with multiple personalities.
Watch Trailer Here
Imposters
“Imposters” is is a 2017 dark comedy which follows a con artist who seduces and marries men, only to steal their money and disappear. As the series progresses, it is revealed that she has multiple personalities, each with its own distinct identity and agenda. The show’s quirky humor and twisty plot make it a unique entry in the genre of shows about multiple personalities.
Watch Trailer Here
My own worst Enemy
“My Own Worst Enemy” is a short-lived NBC series premiered in 2008. The show stars Christian Slater as a man who discovers that he has a second personality, a trained killer named Edward Albright. The show features fast-paced action and an intriguing premise, but ultimately falls short with shallow character development and a lack of emotional depth. While it may appeal to fans of spy thrillers, My Own Worst Enemy is ultimately forgettable.
Watch Trailer Here
The Lying Game
“The Lying Game” is a two seasoned series which aired from 2011 and was concluded in 2013. This mystery drama follows a pair of twin sisters who were separated at birth and reunite as teenagers. One of the sisters, Emma, has been living in foster care and has developed DID as a coping mechanism. The show explores the complicated dynamics between the sisters and the secrets they uncover about their past.
Watch Trailer Here
The Many Lives of Dobie Gillis
“The Many Lives of Dobie Gillis” (1959-1963) is a classic sitcom featuring a recurring character named Maynard G. Krebs, who is a beatnik with multiple personalities. While the show’s portrayal of DID is outdated by modern standards, it is an interesting artifact of its time and a precursor to more modern portrayals of the condition.
Watch the Series Here
The United States of Leland
“The United States of Leland” (2003): is an independent film staring Ryan Gosling as a teenager with DID who is serving time in prison for murder. As he reflects on his past and his relationships with his family and friends, the audience gets a glimpse into the complexities of his condition.
Watch Trailer Here
